Gladu Joins Liberal Caucus

Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed the press on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, regarding the inclusion of MP Marilyn Gladu of Sarnia-Lambton-Bkejwanong into the Liberal caucus. Gladu was present during the announcement in Ottawa. Carney stressed that all members of the Liberal caucus, including Gladu, are expected to uphold core Liberal values.

Commitment to Liberal Principles

Carney specifically emphasized unwavering support for abortion rights and LGBTQ+ rights as non-negotiable principles for all Liberal MPs. He stated the Liberal party’s unwavering support for a woman's right to choose, reaffirming this position as fundamental. The Prime Minister underscored the party’s commitment to building a strong Canada that serves all Canadians.

Shift in Political Landscape

This move brings the Liberals within one seat of a majority government ahead of three upcoming byelections scheduled for next week. Gladu’s defection marks the fifth opposition MP to join the Liberals since November, and the fourth from the Conservative party. This represents a notable shift in the Canadian political landscape.

Scrutiny of Gladu’s Past Statements

COVID-19 Misinformation

Gladu’s political history has faced scrutiny following her party switch. In 2021, she publicly apologized for sharing what she termed “misinformation” regarding the severity of COVID-19 and the effectiveness of vaccines during an interview with CTV News. This admission sparked debate about the accuracy of her previous statements and its impact on public trust.

Support for the “Freedom Convoy”

Her support for the “Freedom Convoy” protest in 2022, which caused disruptions in Ottawa, has also been criticized. Critics argue this support contradicts the Liberal party’s values of responsible governance and respect for public order.

Past Votes on Key Issues

Furthermore, Gladu’s past views on abortion and LGBTQ+ rights have been a source of controversy. In 2020, she signaled openness to allowing her previous party to introduce bills restricting abortion access. In 2021, she voted against a Liberal bill banning conversion therapy, later issuing a statement affirming her support for the LGBTQ+ community.

Carney Defends Decision

During a news conference in Montérégie, Quebec, Carney faced questions about welcoming Gladu given her past remarks. He praised Gladu as a collaborative member of Parliament, highlighting her history of working across party lines and her dedication to her constituents. He views her experience and dedication as assets that outweigh her past conflicting viewpoints.